PARIS, Dec. 3, 2015 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Government of Canada, the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, congratulated Manitoba on its contributions to climate action in Canada.

"Manitoba has placed great emphasis on green energy in recent years, focusing its efforts on helping its citizens to conserve energy, while building a flourishing clean technology sector.

"Through energy efficiency programs, support for green buildings and the development of cleaner energy sources such as geothermal heating, biofuels, wind, and hydro, Manitoba has demonstrated that an on-going commitment to clean energy in Canada is both possible and profitable.

"The Government of Canada welcomes Manitoba's commitment to additional climate-action measures, and is eager to work with the Province of Manitoba, and all other Canadian provinces and territories, in transforming Canada into a cleaner and greener country.

"Canada is serious about climate change, and now is the time to take action. Canada will provide national leadership, and join with the provinces and territories to take action on climate change, put a price on carbon, and reduce emissions.

"Canada is committed to the success of the Paris Climate Conference in achieving a fair, ambitious and effective agreement that will enable the international community to achieve the goal of limiting warming below two degrees Celsius."